London’s Hippodrome Casino to host 2017 European Dealer Championships

European Dealer Championship (EDC) will come to London for the first time this May in a hotly anticipated contest taking place at The Hippodrome Casino, Leicester Square.

From 8 May – 10 May, the Hippodrome Casino will see 33 of Europe’s most talented croupiers from 21 different countries showcase their skills on American Roulette and Blackjack in a fierce knock-out competition designed to test each contestant’s flair and expertise.

The EDC involves some of the biggest casino operators in the industry and on the continent. UK representative, Stuart McCallum, a croupier from Les Ambassadeurs, said: “I’ve really enjoyed taking part in the whole process and it’s a privilege to be representing the UK this year, especially considering the Championships are taking place on home soil.”

Thirty-one judges from 21 countries will oversee three main categories: technical skill, game control and hospitality. Activities also include best chipper, best card handler, best cutting chips, best pushing stacks and best mathematician. Commenting on the nature of the championship, Tracy Damestani, CEO of the National Casino Forum, added that combined these elements are “an art form, a piece of theatre, watching these men and women perform is truly entertaining.”

The event this year is organised by the European Casino Association in conjunction with the National Casino Forum, who represent all of land-based casino operators in the UK.

Simon Thomas, CEO of The Hippodrome Casino, added: “It's vital we recognise the enormous dedication of the dealers who represent the best customer experience of any casino. Good luck to all the competitors, and I look forward to welcoming them to The Hippodrome.”

Round 1 is scheduled to begin at 17.15 on 9 May and continues again at 12.10 on 10 May. The semi-finals start at 16.00 on 10 May.